History of Art and Design Minor

Program Coordinator/Contact

Leda Cempellin, Professor
School of Design
Chicoine Architecture, Mathematics & Engineering Hall 378, Box 2225
605-688-4103

Program Information

A minor in History of Art and Design provides theoretical and historical strengths in support of the School of Design’s existing programs in Architecture (B.F.A.), Graphic Design (B.F.A.), Interior Design (B.F.A.), Studio Art (B.F.A.), and Landscape Architecture (B.L.A.). This minor’s multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary structure reflects the School of Design’s mission of shared curriculum across disciplines. The minor builds from existing theoretical strengths within the School of Design and further enhances students’ awareness of the historical and contemporary manifestations of the concept of “design” across disciplines. The skills students learn in the history of art, including performing extensive research, conceptualization, forming a solid argument, carrying out a complex project requiring extensive time and resilience, can be transferrable to a variety of professions.

Student Learning Outcomes

As a result of completing the minor in History of Art and Design, students will:

• Gain a broader understanding of the complex intertwining of historical, cultural, social, and political contexts that sparked innovations in the art and design disciplines.
• Evaluate the importance of the art and design disciplines in shaping social life and communication.
• Articulate parallels, intersections and reciprocal influences between art and design disciplines.
• Expand the use of art and design vocabulary.
• Refine written, verbal and conceptualization skills.

Course Delivery Format

Course content is delivered through hands-on studio work combined with lectures, demonstrations, and critiques.